Stonehome's Autumn Wine Picks

No more standing in line to sit in a ‘garden’ smaller than your kitchen with 3 dozen of your closest neighbors. It’s time to go in. Stonehome Winebar in Fort Greene has exactly the right vibe to recover from the bustle of summer festivities. Stonehome is relaxed but not sleepy, the perfect place for a laidback night out with friends or a romantic evening for two.

Proprietors Bill Stenehjem and Rose Hermann have lived in the neighborhood for 25 years. They opened Stonehome in 2003 and found a local following right away. Neighbors meet at the long curvy cherry wood bar and discuss the day, local issues and, of course, the wine. The staff knows regulars by name and wine preference. When new bottles come in, they’ll let you know which are up your alley…

Earlier this year Bill and Rose hired John Gibson to head up the kitchen. The menu was transformed. Stonehome offers new specials daily, using seasonal ingredients in some pretty exciting ways. This time of year, John is using walnuts, maple syrup, beets and acorn squash. The menu is full of comforting fall savories like Braised Beef Short Ribs and Glazed Pork.

Rose and Bill are matching these dishes with some new wine offerings by the glass. Here are a few of their favorite new additions:

Chateaunnuef du Pape ’03, Domaine Des Senechaux — “Rich, supple, with notes of baked plums.”

Coteaux du Languedoc, ’00, Chateau Peuch-Haut, Saint Drezery — “Savory and spicy, with notes of black cherry and sandlewood.”

Ribera del Duero, Spain, Guelbenzu, Evor ’03 — “Ripe lingering flavors of black cherry, raspberry, chocolate and licorice.”

Rioja, Spain, Marquez De Vargas Reserva, ’00 — “Lush, smoky, rich dark fruits, blackberries with brown sugar.”

Stonehome Wine Bar is located at 87 Lafayette Avenue at So. Portland. Open everyday from 5pm.

— photo and story by clay williams